UP man tries to kiss snake for reel, gets bitten; in ICU

BIJNOR: A 50-year-old man is battling for life after a snake bit his tongue when he tried to kiss the reptile in a bid to make an impression and make a video, which has since been widely circulated on social media and has sparked widespread ridicule from netizens.The incident took place in Haibatpur village of UP’s Amroha district on Fridayevening. Jitendra Kumar, a marginal farmer, had rescued the snake and was attempting to film a video with it.Several bystanders recorded the incident as he carried out the risky stunt, which ended with the snake bite. Villagers claimed that Kumar was intoxicated at the time and was smoking while attempting to kiss the snake. The video shows Kumar placing a snake around his neck and bringing it close to his mouth. As he sticks out his tongue toward the reptile, it suddenly strikes, biting him on the tongue and shocking onlookers. Kumar’s condition quickly deteriorated and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, from where he was referred to a higher medical facility. Kumar’s family has not reported the incident to the authorities.Village head Jaikirat Singh confirmed that Kumar is currently admitted to the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Moradabad.

His condition is critical.“A snake emerged from a wall in the village on Friday evening, causing panic. Jitendra arrived at the scene, caught the reptile, and placed it around his neck. He played with the snake for some time and eventually brought it close to his mouth. When his grip loosened, the snake bit him on his tongue. Startled, Jitendra released the snake, which then slithered into the nearby bushes,” said the village head, discussing the scenario.